Different Patterns of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis in Zagazig University Hospitals

Abstract

Background: Pediatric rheumatic diseases can cause considerable disease burden to children and their families. They are associated with the potential for physical disability, diminished quality of life and significant direct and indirect  costs.

Objective: We aimed to describe the clinical spectrum and the frequencies and different patterns of Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in children in Zagazig University Hospitals.

Patients and methods: A cross-sectional study included 68 cases with Juvenile idiopathic arthritis < 16 years. The study was conducted over two years from December 2017 to December 2019. Investigations as complete blood count,C reactive protein, antinuclear antibody (ANA), rheumatoid factor (RF), complement C3 & C4, creatine phosphokinase, and EMG. Management and treatment plans were achieved and data about the results were collected.

Results: Most of patients diagnosed with rheumatological diseases were females. Oligoarticular JIA was the commonest subtype of JIA in our study followed by polyarticular then systemic onset type. NSAIDs was the commonest drug used by JIA patients followed by methotrexate then corticosteroids.

Conclusion: Early diagnosis and effective management of these children is essential so that they can lead a normal or near normal life especially in patients with rheumatological diseases with chronic morbidity as JIA.